The role and function of She nationality folk paper-cutting
Paper-cutting, commonly known as "zān huā" and "jiǎo huā" among the She people, has visual aesthetic value as a pattern. What is more important in the daily life of She Village in Eastern Mindong is its use value, which is mainly reflected in the living customs , beliefs and customs and etiquette and folk customs. Paper-cuts related to lifestyle customs, such as base patterns (commonly known as "flower seeds") in clothing embroidery, are mainly used for clothing, shoe patterns, etc. Paper-cutting related to religious beliefs and customs, such as the red human-shaped paper-cutting "holding lotus flowers in hands and wearing boots" in the childs passing ceremony, represents the child himself and is a medium for communicating with gods and spirits. This type of paper-cutting is passed down by the master. Etiquette and folk paper-cutting, such as fireworks for engagements, birthday flowers for the elderly and flags for funeral customs, express peoples best wishes and deep condolences for their deceased relatives.
